Hotels in Exmoor National Park

Exmoor was designated a National Park in 1954, though its cultural and historical tapestry stretches back millennia, evidenced by ancient standing stones, Iron Age hill forts, and Roman fortlets scattered across the moor. The landscape has been profoundly shaped by centuries of agricultural practice, particularly sheep farming and the deliberate burning of heather to encourage new growth, a tradition that maintains the open, sweeping character of the moorland today. Culturally, Exmoor is a repository of English folklore and rural tradition. The area is famous for its native Exmoor Pony, one of the oldest and rarest horse breeds in the world, which roams semi-wild across the moors and serves as a living emblem of the park's heritage. Red deer, the largest wild land mammal in Britain, also thrive here, making Exmoor a premier wildlife-watching destination. The park is loosely divided into several distinct areas, each with its own character. The central moorland, dominated by Dunkery Beacon, is a vast, open expanse of heather and grass, ideal for long, contemplative hikes. The northern coastline, featuring the Valley of Rocks and Lynmouth Harbour, is dramatically rugged and romantically picturesque. To the south and east, the landscape softens into deep, wooded valleys and traditional farming villages like Exford and Dulverton, which serve as welcoming gateways for visitors. Exmoor is famous for this seamless transition from high, windswept moor to deep, ancient oak woodland, all within a few miles. This diversity creates a habitat rich in wildlife and a landscape that offers endless variation for the explorer. It is a working landscape, where the rhythms of farming life continue to dictate the pace, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into rural England that is increasingly rare to find.

Best Time to Visit Exmoor National Park

Exmoor's charm shifts dramatically with the seasons, making the best time to visit highly dependent on your desired activities. Spring (April to May) is spectacular for witnessing the moorland erupt into color with gorse and bluebells, and it is the prime time to spot newborn Exmoor foals and red deer calves. Summer (June to August) is the peak season, offering the most reliable weather for coastal walks, wild swimming, and riding the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway. However, this is when the popular villages are most crowded, and accommodation prices peak. Autumn (September to November) is arguably the most magical time to visit. The moorland turns a stunning russet and gold, the red deer stags begin their dramatic rutting season, and the crowds dissipate, offering a more tranquil experience. Winter (December to March) is the off-peak season, transforming Exmoor into a stark, beautiful wilderness. It is the absolute best time for stargazing due to the long, dark nights and minimal light pollution, though some visitor facilities and smaller attractions reduce their opening hours. Major events include the Exmoor Beast Challenge in spring, the Dunster by Candlelight festival in December, and various agricultural shows throughout the summer that celebrate the region's deep farming traditions.

Where to Stay in Exmoor National Park